Four years ago, I got an idea to start an Internet community for neonatal staff. At that time I was a member of a Swedish Mac-computer community and had realized that web-based professional networks can become great resources. (BTW, this is pre-historical times of today's Social Media-hype.)

I convinced a few of my friends in the NICU at Karolinska to spend MUCH time to set the whole thing up...

The 11th of May 2006 was the official opening!

It is hard to summarize the development during the past four years, but it is a fact that 99nicu has grown steadily. On average, 2 new member have registered every day since the start. We now count more than 200 unique visitors and more than 4000 page visits. Per day!

But, 99nicu is more than numbers. Personally, I do not care about web statistics, when I think about what a community for neonatal staff can achieve. With the bulk of knowledge that has been shared here, for the good of the tiny babies that we all care for in NICUs over the world. I know that advice given in the virtual NICU has had major impact on the outcomes for some infants. That matters to me.

The future... well... think about 99nicu in evolutionary terms. We all (you and me and every single member) build this community. What happens here, depends on us.

The funding... I am doctor, not a salesman, and there has not been a crowd of investors knocking on the door. Even though I have taken a big bite of the cake myself, 99nicu has also been funded by individual members making small donations (become a supporting member here!) and by educational grants from commercial companies. These latter contributions have been essential for our maintenance costs. Thanks!

Finally, I would like to acknowledge:

• all members who have contributed with ideas, advice and supportive words
  
• the original Team for believing in this crazy idea in the first place
  
• the current Team - without your efforts, 99nicu would not be the same. Maybe not at all!
  
• wife and son for understanding that 99nicu is my contribution to a better world
  

Greeting to all of you!

/Stefan

PS. Celibrate the Four Year Anniversary in the Lounge!